What it is
DNTs (dinitrotoluenes) are by-products of making TNT and are used in explosive formulations. ADNTs (amino-dinitrotoluenes) form when TNT partly breaks down in soil and water. Both are found as munitions constituents at former plants and ranges, and are toxic to people and wildlife.
How MuniRem® treats it
MuniRem lists DNTs and ADNTs among compounds it treats. Its materials give no DNT-specific test data, so the steps below are MuniRem's general nitro-explosive chemistry.
- MuniRem arrives as a dry powder. Crews mix it into contaminated soil or sludge, or dissolve it in water to spray, pour or soak surfaces.
- Adding water starts the reaction. The reagent releases sulfoxyl free radicals, a short-lived reactive form of sulfur.
- The radicals strip oxygen-rich nitro groups off the explosive molecule. That removes the part that stores explosive energy.
- The remaining carbon skeleton breaks down further. MuniRem says contact with explosives takes seconds to minutes, at ambient temperature.
- An EPA-certified laboratory tests the treated material before any disposal decision.
This material is evaluated case by case with a treatability study before any full-scale work.
What it becomes
Nitrogen gas, Formate & acetate, Carbon dioxide & water, Sulfate (from the reagent).
Where it's found
Former TNT plants, loading pads, range soils and process water.
Talk to us
Every site is different. The dose depends on the material, the amount and the site conditions.
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